Wightlink re-sign Taylor and Facey

The Wightlink Raiders made a good charge for playoff glory last season, but the ENL South Division One league champions were ultimately beaten in the ENL South final by Chelmsford. The Radiers have reacted quickly to ensure that they maintain a strong squad for next season’s push. The side that finished top of their division by two points over the Chieftains, have announced that they have re-signed key players Nathan Taylor and Richard Facey for the next campaign.

Having been on the roster of the Vipers’ previously, Taylor who is only 21, is a very promising prospect, and his putting pen to paper is great news for Radiers’ fans. In 38 appearances for the Isle of Wight outfit last term, he netted 16 goals and contributed 17 assists. Along with the other announced signing of Richard Facey, their efforts were vital in enabling the side to secure the league title, and their capture suggests another strong season at the Ryde Arena.

Facey was another big player in front of the net for the Raiders, with 21 goals for his side. Those stats are even more impressive when you factor in the ice time Facey had as a third-line player for Wightlink. The Power Forward has definitely given his coach plenty to think about, and is likely to see more action in the upcoming season. The former Bracknell Bee youngster, also has experience of playing in the Heritage Junior Hockey League in Canada, where he was his team’s (Banff Academy Bears) top scorer.

Player-Coach Cornish has also agreed a new deal in recent days, and he got straight back in to things by agreeing the return of these prize Wightlink assets. It will be interesting to see what new blood he feels he needs to be able to take the Raiders on further. Facey and Naylor back on the ice, is just the beginning of what should be an off-season of high hopes and excited anticipation for Raiders’ fans.